Bridges to Grace

Archive for May, 2017

Not that I speak from [any personal] need, for I have learned to be content [and self-sufficient through Christ, satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or uneasy] regardless of my circumstances.

Contentment does not come from how much money we have, or from any outside source. It comes from the freedom that results from understanding that we are living in God’s provision.

Matthew Henry: For I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. We have here an account of Paul’s learning, not that which he got at the feet of Gamaliel, but that which he got at the feet of Christ. He had learnt to be content; and that was the lesson he had as much need to learn as most men, considering the hardships and sufferings with which he was exercised. He was in bonds, and imprisonments, and necessities, often; but in all he had learnt to be content, that is, to bring his mind to his condition, and make the best of it.

Paul’s sufficiency was in Christ, whose peace & purpose he enjoys regardless of the life circumstances he faced.

Our contentment should be founded on the assurance of God’s constant presence & the promises He extends to us as He supplies our daily needs. With this assurance why do we get dis-contented? Dis-contentment – a restless desire or craving for something one does not have. Are you focused on those things that you do not have?

1 Tim. 6:8 (MSG)

A devout life does bring wealth, but it’s the rich simplicity of being yourself before God. Since we entered the world penniless and will leave it penniless, if we have bread on the table and shoes on our feet, that’s enough.

1 Tim. 6:8 (KJV) And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

Matthew Henry The necessaries of life are the hounds of a true Christian’s desire, and with these he will endeavour to be content; his desires are not insatiable; no, a little, a few comforts of this life, will serve him, and these may hope to enjoy: Having food and raiment.

Hebrews 13: (AMP)Let your character [your moral essence, your inner nature] be free from the love of money [shun greed—be financially ethical], being content with what you have; for He has said, “I will never [under any circumstances] desert you [nor give you up nor leave you without support, nor will I in any degree leave you helpless], nor will I forsake or let you down or relax My hold on you [assuredly not]!

”What a promise. He will never desert us. He will never leave us with out help or support. He will never let us down. He will never relax His hold on us. Wow, in that we can be content!!!!

Watch the video below. He tells us daily that we are His and He knows just what we need!!!!

I had to add this video too. I love this Band… It’s a gift to be alive. Don’t let the beauty of this life pass you by!!!